GB2550659A

GB2550659A - Improvements in and relating to tools

Info

Publication number: GB2550659A
Application number: GB1704561.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Gould Tony; Foster Richard; Granger Eddie; Skidmore David
Original assignee: VP PLC
Current assignee: VP PLC
Priority date: 2016-03-22
Filing date: 2017-03-22
Publication date: 2017-11-29
Anticipated expiration: 2037-03-22
Also published as: GB2550659B; GB201604833D0; GB201704561D0

Abstract

A tool 1 suitable for lifting and driving a support element, which may be a trench sheet (A, Fig. 1A). The tool 1 has a machine engagement component 7, the machine preferably being an excavator, an orientation component 5 and a support element engagement component 3. The support element engagement component 3 provides a support element receiving location (between fingers 57). The tool 1 has a support element lifting state (Figures 5c and 5d) and a support element driving state (Figure 5e). The support element remains in the receiving location during the transition from the lifting state to the driving state. There are disclosed several other aspects. The support element being in first and second positions in the receiving location for the lifting and driving states, the force applied in the lifting and driving states passing through the machine engagement, orientation and support element engagement components, the machine engagement component being connected to the orientation component which is connected to the support element engagement component during the lifting and driving states, and the receiving location providing lifting and driving locations. There are also methods and a transportation stand relating to the use of similar tools.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO TOOLS

This invention concerns improvements in and relating to tools, particularly but not exclusively toots for lifting and driving supports for excavations such as trench sheets; The invention also concerns methods for using the tools and for providing support to excavations using such tools and methods. A wide variety of construction situations require an excavation to be dug or formed whilst a task is perfofmed, before the excavation is refilled. During the duration of the excavation, it is necessary to support the walls of the excavation so aS tO maintain the shape of the excavation and the working space vyifhih it, but more importantly to provide a safe working environment within the excavation. For this purpose it is known to use supporting wails for the excavations, using trench sheets or the like. These are generally positioned in the excavation against the walls of the excavation (of Where the walls Will be), driven into the ground and remain in position such that the wall of the excavation is supported. When the excavation is inished the supporting wall is Withdrawn.

The supporting walls, such as trench sheets, are substantial metal elements with a significant lefigth, width and weight. Separate tools are used in the prior art to lift and position, before switching ip a driving tool. Such an approach faces safety issues from maintaining the position of the supporting wall during the tool change. The tool change also consumes time and has working at height safety issues involved.

The present invention has amongst its aims to provide a single tool for lifting and driving; and preferably subsequently extracting, a supporting wall, such as a trench sheet;

The present invention has amongst its aims to provide a safer too! and method of operation for lifting and driving and switching between the two operations, and preferably lifting, driving and extracting and switching between all those operations.

The present invention has amongst its aims to provide improved performance in the lifting and/or driving and/or extraction stages through the use of the tool.

According to a first aspect of the invention there js provided a tool for lifting and driving a support element, the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; wherein the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state; ihwhich the support element remains in the support element receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support element driving state.

The tool may provide that the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the support element is at a first position within the support element receiving location in the support element lifting state and is at a second position within the support element receiving Ideation in the support element driving state.

The tool may provide that the too! has a support element lifting state and a support element driving State; in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support efement driving state passes through the machine engagement component/ the orientation component and the support element engagement component.

The tool may provide that the machine engagement component is connected to the orientation component and the orientation component is connected to the support element engagement component during a support element lifting state and a support element driving state.

The too l may provide that the support receiving location provides a support element lifting location and a support element driving location.

Accord i ng Id a second aspect of the invention there is provided a tool for lifting and driving a support element, the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and c| a support element engagement Component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving Ideation; wherein the too! has a support element lifting state and a support elementdriving State> in which the support element is at a first position within the support element receiving Ideation in the support element lifting state and is at a second position within the support element receiving location in the support element driving state.

The tool may provide that the tool has a support element lifting State and a support element driving state, in which the support element remains in the support element receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support element driving state.

The tool may provide that the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support element driving state passes through the machine engagement component, the orientation component and the support element engagement component.

The tool may provide that the machine engagement component is connected to the Orientation component arid the orientation component is connected to the support element engagement component during a support element lifting state and a support element driving state.

The tool may provide that the support receiving location provides a support element lifting Ideation and a support element driving location.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a tool for lifting and driving a support element, the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; wherein the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support element driving state passes through the machine engagement component^ the orientation component and the support element engagement Components

The tpol may provide that the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the support element is at a first position within the support element receiving location in the support element lifting state arid is at a second position within the support element receiving location in the support element driving state.

The tool may provide that the machine engagement component is connected to the orientation component and the orientation component is connected to the support element engagement component during a support element lifting state and a support eiement driving state.

The tool may provide that the support receiving Ideation provides a support element lifting location and a support element driving location.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a tool for lifting and driving a support element* the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and e) a support element engagement component* the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; whereiri the machine engagement component is connected to the orientation component and the orientation component is connected to the support element engagement component during a support element lifting state and a support element drivmg state.

The tool may provide that the topi has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the support element remains in the support element receiving ideaidn during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support element driving state.

The too! may provide that the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the support element is at a first position within the support element receiving location in the support element lifting state and is at a second position within the support element receiving location in the support element driving state.

The too! may provide that the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support element driving state passes through the machine engagement component, the orientation component and the support etement engagement component, fhe tool may provide that the support receiving location provides a support element lifting location and a support element driving location.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a tool for lifting and driving a support element, the tooi comprising: 3} a machine enpgemeht component; b) an orientation component; and e) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; wherein the Support receiving location provides a support element lifting location and a support elernent driving location.

Hie tool may provide that the too! has a support element lifting state arid a support element driving State, in which the support element remains in the support element receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support element driving state. the tool may provide that the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the support element is at a first position Within the support element receiving location in the support element lifting state and is at a second position within the support element receiving location in the support element driving state.

The tool may provide that the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support element driving state passes through the machine engagement component; the orientation component and the support element engagement component.

The tool may provide that the machine engagement component is connected to the orientation component and the orientation component is connected to the support element engagemenicomponeht during a support element fif ing state and a support element driving state.

The first and/or second and/or third and/or fourth and/or fifth aspects of the invention may include any of the features, options or possibilities set out elsewhere within this document, including in any and all of |he other aspects of the invention or the description of the embodiments of the invention.

Preferably the machine engagement component provides the connection of the tool to a machine, such as an excavator or other construction site equipment.

Preferably the machine engagement component connects with the orientation component. The connection between the machine engagement component and the orientation component may provide for multiple orientations of the orientation component relative to the machine engagement component. The connection between the machine engagement component and the orientation component may provide for multiple orientations of the orientation component relative to the machine. The multiple orientations relative to the machine engagement component and/or machine may be multiple orientations about an axis, a first axis.

Preferably the orientation component connects with the support element engagement component. The connection between the orientation component and the support element engagement component may provide multiple orientations of the support element engagement component relative to the orientation component. The multiple orientations relative to the orientation component may be multiple orientations about a further axis, a second axisl

Preferably the support element engagement component allows for the releasable engagement of the tool with a support element.

Preferably the machine engagement component provides a releasable connection of the tool to a machine. The releasable connection may be activated from the controls locatio n of the machine.

The machine engagement component may provide a first axis of rotation. The first axis of rotation may be for the orientation component about the machine engagement component.

The machine engagement component may provide a pair affixed position elements, for instance for the machine to engage with. The fixed position elements may be bars, such as circular cross-section bars. The fixed position elements may be mounted bn the tool by one or more mounting elements. A mount element may be provided at each end Of each of the fixed position elements, The same mounting element may be provided for the end of two of the fixed position elements. Two mounting elements may be used to mount the fixed position elements. The mounting elements may be substantially perpendicular to the axis of the fixed position elements. The one or more mounting elements may be provided by a support element. The support element may be a plate.

The machine engagement component may provide a mounting for the orientation component. The mounting may provide a mounting on Which the orientation component can rotate, The mounting may alternatively rotate relative tb the machine engagement component on which it is provided.

The mounting may include a stem, such as a right cylinder, which provides at least a part of the element about which the orientation component can rotate. The stem may have an axis, which axis provides a first axis of rotation for the orientation component. The first axis may be perpendicular to the support element. The first alls may be equally spaced between the fixed position elements.

The mounting may include a retaining element Which is distal to the support element and/or is connected to the stem. The retaining element may haVb a dimension in one or more radial directions which exceeds the dimension of the stem, such as right cylinder, in that direction. The retaining element may exceed the diameter of the stem, such as right cylinder, in ali radial directions. The retaining element may be annular.

The retaining element may provide a bearing surface for a part of the orientation component, particularly the body thereof.

The retaining element may be reieaseably connected to the stem, such as right cylinder, for instance using one or more releasable fasteners.

The mounting may include a stem connection element provided between the support element and the stem. The stem connection element may be integral with the stem The Stem connection element may have a dimension in one or more radial directions which exceeds the dimension of the stem, such as right cylinder, in that direction. The stem connection element may exceed the diameter of the stem, such as right cylinder, in ail radial directions. The stem connection element may be annular.

The same support element may provide the mounting elements for the fixed position elements and may provide the mounting for the orientation component. The mounting elements may be provided on one side, for instance One face, of the support element. The mounting for the orientation component may be provided on another side, for instance second face, of the support element, The one side and the another side may be In opposition to one another, for instance as opposite faces of a plate, The same Support element may be a single element. The same support element may be a first element and a second element whiCh are fastened together, for instance using one or more releasable fasteners. The first element and the sepphd element may be plates, fbr instance of matching profiles.

The machine engagement component may be connected to the ofientation component by the interaction Of the orientation component with the mounting provided by the machine engagement component.

Preferably the orientation component provides for the support element engaging Component to assume a plurality of different orientations relative to the machine engagement CQmppnert! The plurality of orientations may provide at least 200° of rotation about a first axis. Preferably 360° of rotation is provided. The plurality of orientation may provide at least 80° of rotation about a second axis.

The orientation component maY provide a second axis of rotation. The second axis of rotation may be for the support element engagement component about the orientation component. The second axis may be perpendicular to the first axis.

The orientation component may provide a body. The body may include a through bore, preferably centrally provided, The body may include ah annular element. The through bore may receive the mounting Of the machine engagement component, particularly the stem. The through bore preferably has an the axis corresponding to the axis of the mounting, such as a stem.

Preferably the axis corresponds to the first axis of rotation of the orientation component. The body may be retained on the mounting by the retaining element. The training element may have a dimension in one or more radial directions which exceeds the dimension of the through bore in that direction. The retaining element may exceed the diameter of the through bore in all radial directions. The distal Side of the body relative to the support element of the machine engagement component may engage with the bearing surface provided by the retaining element.

The orientation component may provide a mounting for the support element engagement component. The mounting may provide a mounting on which the support element engagement component can rotate. The mounting may alternatively rotate relative to the orientation component on which it is provided.

The body Of the orientation component may provide the second axis of rotation. The body may provide one or more protrusions extending from the body. The one or more protrusions may be stubs. The one or more protrusions may extend perpendicular to the first axis. The one or more protrusions may be have ah axis, preferably ah axis aligned with the second axis. The protrusions may provide an external bearing surface, for instance a right cylinder portion thereof.

Prefera bly the support element engagement component provides a support element receiving location.

The support element engagement component may provide a releasable connection of the tool to a support element, such as a trench sheet. The releasable connection may be remotely activated relative to the support element engagement component; for instance by an operator, preferably ah Operator working at ground level.

The support element engagement component may include one or more arms. The arms may be connected to a base element. The one or more arms may extend substantially parallel to the first axis and/or substantially perpendicular to the second axis,

The distal ends of the arms relative to the base element may include a mounting element The mou nti ng el|ment(s) may mount the support element engagement component on the orientation component. The mounting element(s) may include a bore, for instance a through bore. The annular bore may accommodate a part of the protrusion provide by the orientation component, for instance the external bearing surface thereof. A pair of arms, each with a bore, each accommodating a part of a protrusion provided by the orientation component may be provided. The mounting eiement(s) may be annular. The base element may extend between the pair of arms.

The base element may be a plate. The base element may include a further base element which is releasable connected to the base element, the further base element may be a further base plate. One or more reieaseabiy fasteners which cooperate with bores in both the base element and the further base element may be used.

The base plate may be connected to one of a set of further base plates, The set pf further base plates may include one or more further base plates which are provided With support element contacting components which are different compared with one or more of the other further base piates in the set. The support element contacting components may be different from one another in terms of one or more of: the number of support element contacting components provided; the separation of a support element from another in a first direction, for instance the direction defining the spacing; the separation of a support element from another in a second direction, for instance perpendicular to the first direction. The support element contacting components may be different in terms of the support element profile which can be inserted Into the support element receiving localon and/or between the support element contacting components.

The support element contacting components may contact the support element Occasionally or continuously during use,

The base element may mount the support element contacting components. The support contacting elements may extend from the base element, for instance in a substantially perpendicular direction.

The Support element engagement component may provide the support element receiving location between two or more support element contacting components, for instance between two opposing support element contacting components. Preferably one opposing support element contacting components may be provided on either side of the support element in use.

The support element contacting components may include one or more pairs of opposing elements with a spacing provided between the opposing elements, preferably with the support element receiving location being provided by at least a part of that spacing. The spacing may be greater than the thickness of the support elements. The pair of opposing elements may be a pair of fingers. A plurality of support element receiving locations may be provided, for instance between multiple support contacting elements, such as two or more pairs. The support element contacting components may be provided at a plurality of locations on the base element. The piurality of locations may be spaced such that at least one support element contacting component is on one side of a profile and at least one other support element is on the other Side Of the profile.

The profile may be the position occupied by the support element when contacted by the support element engaging component. At least one support element contacting component may be provided separated from at least one other support element contactingcomponent in a first direction, preferably substantially perpendicular to the second axis of rotation and/or along the width of the profile of the support element when contacted by the support element engaging component. At least one support element contacting component may be provided separated from at least one other support element contacting component in a second direction, preferably substantially perpendicular to the first direction and/or perpendicular to the first axis of rotation and/or perpendicular to the width of the profile of the support element when contacted by the support eiemer# engaging component

At least two support element contacting components may be provided, with preferably at least one support element contacting components on either side of the thickness of the support element. The support element contacting components on opposing sides of the support element may be in opposition with one another, so as to form a pair. At least four support element contacting components may be provided, with preferably at least two support element contacting components on either side of the thickness of the support element. The support element contacting components on opposing Sides of the support element may be in opposition with one another, so as to form a pair, or may be offset relative to one another.

Preferably at least one pair of opposing elements are provided.

Alternatively at least two pairs Of Opposing elements are provided. The two pairs may be separated from one another in a first direction, preferably substantially perpendicular to the second axis of rotation and/or along the width of the profile of the support element when contacted by the support element engaging Component. The two pairs maysbe separated from one another in a Second direction, preferably substantially perpendicular to the first direction and/or perpendicular to the first axis of rotation and/or perpendicular to the width of the profile of the support element when contacted by the support element engaging component. Preferably the at least two pairs of opposing elements are offset relative to one another such that they receive the profile of the support element, with ope i# receiving the part of the profile which extends in a first direction relative to the plane of the support element and with the other pair receiving the part of the profile which extends in a second direction relative to the plane of the support element.

The support element Contacting components may be provided with one or more of the support element contacting components having a greater extent from the base element, than one or more of the other support element contacting components. The support element contacting components may be provided with one or more Of the support element contacting components being longer than one or more of the other support element contacting components, One or more pairs of the support element contacting components may be so provided when compared With one or more other pairs of support element contacting components. One of the support element contacting components in a pair or in each pair of support element contacting Components may be so provided when compared with the other support element contacting component in the pair.

One or more pr all of the support element contacting components may be provided with tips which are tapered.

The tool may also include an orientation maintenance element for the support element engagement component. The orientation maintenance element may be rotatably mounted on the topi, for instance on the orientation component; preferably on the body. A pin and bore may be used to provide the rotatable mounting. The orientation maintenance element may include an arm portion extending from the rotatable mounting· The arm portion may include, preferably at its distal end, a fixing location. The fixing location may cooperate with the support element engagement component, preferably to maintain the support element engagement component in a predetermined orientation and/or position relative to the machine and/or machine engagement component and/or orientation component. The fixing location may be releaseably connectable to the support element engagement component, for instance by a pin which passes through the fixing location and engages the support element engagement component; Preferably; the predetermined Orientation and/or position is one or more of the following: 1} the support element engagement component is rotated by between 60° and 90° about the second axis relative to the vertical; 2) the spacing between a, preferably all, support element contacting components has; it's plane and/or its axis aligned with the long axis of the support element; 3) a, preferably all, support element contacting components have their plane and/or their axis aligned with the long axis of the support element; 4} a, preferably all, support element Contacting components have their plane and/or their axis at an angle within 2P ©r less ©f the ground bearing the support element(s).

The orientation maintenance element may be released to allow variation of the orientation and/or position of the support element engagement component, for instance during lifting of a support element

The tool may include a restraining mechanism for the support element to be lifted.

The restraining mechanism may retain the support element in the support element receiving location, % instance during the lifting and/or in the lifting state. The restraining mechanism may retain the support element in contact with the support element engagement component, for instance during lifting and/or in the lifting state.

The restraining mechanism may include a restraining elerneht which is passed through an aperture in the support element. The restraining element may he a pin. The restraining mechanism may provide the support element lifting location. The support element lifting location may be defined by the restraining element and particularly by the restraining elerneht when pa through ah aperture in a support element.

The restraining mechanism may be mounted on the support element engagement component, the restraining mechanism may include a plate, for instance a plate bridging the gap between a first support element contacting component and a second support element contacting component. The restraining mechanism may include a pair of projections, for instance brackets, that provide a mount. The mount may be a rotational mounting. The mount may be a mount for the retraining element or an intermediate element, such as an arm, from which the retraining element depends.

The restraining mechanism may have a stable state in which the restraining element is retracted, for instance a support element disengaged state. The restraining element and/or intermediate element may include an over centre cam which provides the stable state. Preferably in the Stable state, no elements and in particular not the restraining element extend into the spacing.

The restraining mechanism may be moveable from the stable state to another state, such as a first state. The movement may be rotation, for instance of the over centre cam; Preferably the restraining mechanism, particulariy the restraining element is urged towards a first state, for instance a support element engaging state, particularly V/hen not in the stable state. The restraining mechanism may be urged by a spring based force, for instance an elastomeric bjpcll such as a urethane element, under compression andifor under greater compression when not in the first state. The support element engaging state may be provided during the lifting of a support element and/or when in the lifting state.

The restraining mechanism may include a component for returning the restraining mechanism fo the stable state and/or for disengaging the restraining element from the support element from a remote location. The component may be a flexible component such as a cord, rope or lanyard. The application of a force to the component may move the restraining mechanism from the first state to the stable state. The restraining mechanism may be returned to the stable state anchor the restraining element may be disengaged from the support element to transition the tool from the support element lifting state to the support element driving state.

The support element engagement component may provide a support element lifting location. The restraining mechanism may provide the support element lifting location. The support element lifting location may be defined by the restraining element and particularly by the restraining element when passed through an aperture in a support element. The support element lifting iocatibn may be at a first position relative to the base element, such as base plate or further base plate, of the support element engagement component. The support element lifting location may be at a first distance from the base element, such as base plate or further base plate, of the support element engagement component.

The support element engagement component may provide a support element driving location. The base element, for instance the base plate or further base plate, of the support element engagement component may define the driving location. The driving location may be the part of the base element, for instance the base plate or further base plate; Whieh abuts the end of the support element. The driving location may be provided between the support element contacting components. The support element driving location may be at a second position relative to the base element, such as base plate or further base plate, of the support element engagement component. The support element lifting driving location may be at a second distance ftom the base element, such as base plate or further base plate, of the support element engagement component. The second position may be Closer to the base element and/or orientation component and/or machine engagement component than the first position. The second distance may be less than the firs! distance from the base element and/or orientation component and/or machine engagement component. The second distance may be zero relative to the base element, potentially due to the support elementabutting the base element and hence the driving location.

The support element, when in a first position relative to the support element receiving location, may be engaged with a restraining element. The support element may have a restraining element passing through an aperture in the support element when in a first position. The support element may be lifted when in the first position. The support element may be re-orientated, for instance by rotation of the tool or the orientation component thereof; When in the first position. The Support element may have a driving force applied to it, when in a first position, which is less than 20%, more preferably less than 10% and ideally iess than 5% of the driving force applied to it when in the second position and/or less than the maximum drive force applied to the support element in the driving state and/or when being driven.

The support element; when in a second position relative to the support element receiving location, may be disengaged with a restraining element. The support element preferably does not have a restraining element passing through an aperture in the support element when in second position. The support element may not be liftable when in the second position, The support element may not be re-orientatable when in the second position. The support element may be closer to the machine and/or the machine engagement component and/or orientation component and/or driving Ideation and/or base element when in the second position. The support element may have a driving force applied to it, when in a second position, which is more than 3 times, more preferably more than 5 times and ideally more than 8 times any driving force applied to it when ip the first position. the support element lifting state may include the support element engaging with a restraining element. The support element lifting state may include a restraining element passing through an aperture in the support element. The support element lilting state may allow the support element to be lifted: The support element lifting state may allow the support element to be reorientated, for instance by rotation of the tool or the orientation component thereof. The support element lifting state may include application of a driving force which is less than 20%, more preferably less than 10% and ideally less than 5% of the driving force applied to it when in the support element driving state and/or less than the maximum drive force applied to the support element in the driving state and/or when being driven.

The support element driving state may include the support element being disengaged from a restraining element. The support element driving state preferably provides that the support element does not have a restraining element passing through an aperture in the support element. The support element driving state may provide that the support element is not liftable. The support element driving State may provide that the support element is not re-orientatable. The support element may be closer to the machine and/or the machine engagement component and/or orientation component and/or driving location and/or base element when in the support element driving state. The support element may have a driving force applied to it, when in the support element driving state, which is more than 3 times, more preferably more than 5 times and ideally more than 8 times any driving force applied to it when in the support element lifting state.

The transition between the support element lifting state and the Support element driving State maybe provided by advancing the support element further between one or more components of the tool. More particularly, fhef ransition may be provided by advancing the support element further between support element contacting components and/or further into the receiving location and/or from a first position to a second position.

The tool may have a support element extraction state. The support element extraction state may include the support element engagement component providing a support element extraction location. The extraction location may be the same as the lifting location. The extraction location may be d ifferent to the lifti ng location.

Particularly when the extraction location is the same as the lifting locehon, the restraining mechanism may provide the support element extraction location. The support element extraction location may be defined by the restraining element and particularly by the restraining element when passed through an aperture th a support element.

Particularly when the eifaebpn location is different to the lifting location, the extraction location may be a first position relative to the base element, such as base plate or further base plate, of the support element engagement component^ with the lifting location at a second position, the second position being closer to the base element, Such as base plate or further base plate, of the support element engagement component than the first position.

The support element extraction state may include the support element engaging with an extraction element. The support element extraction state may include an extraction element passing through an aperture in the support element. The extraction element may be a pin. |n the support element extraction state, the extraction element may be in a retained position relative to the tool and/or support element and/or support element contacting components. The retained position may be provided or maintained by a retaining element contacting or engaging with the extraction element. The retaining element may be pivotally mounted, preferably on a support element contacting component. The retaining element may be rotated into contact or engagement with the extraction element. The retaining element may be rotated out of contact or engagement with the extraction element,, for instance to provide a released position for the extraction element

The extraction element may engage the support element preferably by passing through a hole in the support element. The extraction element may engage the tool and/or support element contacting component, preferably by passing through an aperture in the tool and/or support element contacting component Preferably two such apertures are provided with one in a first support element contacting component and the other in a second support element contacting Component, Preferably the aperture or apertures are slots, preferably elongate slots and most preferably elongate in the direction of extraction of the support element.

The support element extraction state may allow the support element to be lifted from a position in which it has provided support to an excavation or ground:

One or more support element contacting components may he provided with one or more handles; preferably proximal an end of the support element contacting component which is distal to the tool.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided a component for a too!, the component being a further base platen the further base plate mounting the support element contacting components.

The support element contacting components may extend from the further base plate, for instance in a substantially perpendicular direction.

The further base plate may be one of a set of further base plates. The set of further base plates may include one or more further base plates which are provided with support element Contacting components which are difflrent compared with one or more of the other further base plates in the set. The support element contacting components may be different from one another in terms of one or more of: the number of support element contacting components provided; the separation of a support element from another in a first direction, for instance the direction defining the spacing; the separation Of a support element from another in a second direction, for instance perpendicular to the first direction. The support element contacting components may be different in terms of the support element profile which can be inserted into the support element receiving location and/dr between the support element contacting components.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention there is provided a method of providing support for an excavation site, the method including: 1) provided a tool for lifting and driving a support element on a machine, the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; 2) providing the tool in proximity with a support element; 3) providing the tool in a support element lifting state and lifting the support element; 4) moving the support element to a location and then transitioning the tool from the support element lifting state to a support element driving state, the support element remaining in the support element receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support element driving state; 5) driving the support element into the ideation using the machine.

Ire method may include connecting the tool 1° the machine, most preferably using the machine engagement component, ©nee connected to the machine the tool may be used to lift and/or drive multiple support elements, for instance prior to being disconnected from the tool.

The machine may be an excavator.

The mpthod may include lowering the tool using the machine into proximity with a support element to be lifted, the method may include the toot being advanced into contact with the support element. The too! may be in the support element driving state whilst being advanced into proximity with and/or contact with the support element. The tooi may have all elements, particularly a restraining element; withdrawn or retracted whilst the tool is advanced into proximity and/or contact with the support element.

The method may include a change in the orientation of the support element engagement component and/or the use of the orientation maintenance element, for instance before the topi is advanced into proximity and/or contact with the support element; The method may include contacting the tool, particularly the support element engagement component, with the ground to provide the change in orientation.

The method may include sliding one or more elements of the tool over the support element, for instance one or more of the support element contacting components;

The method may include transitioning the tool to the lifting state from another state, such as the driving state. Preferably the transition occurs before there is any lifting of the support element. The transition may include disconnection or deactivation of the orientation maintenance element. The transition may include alignment of the supp0rt:::elewen%::particula:dy:::an aperture therein, with the restraining mechanism, particularly the restraining element. The transition may cause the restraining mechanism, particularly a restraining element, to epgag& with the support element. The engagement may be with an aperture provided in the support element.

The method may include lifting the support element from a substantially horizontal alignment to a substantially vertical alignment.

The method may include altering the orientation of the support element and/or rotation of the support element; for Instance at the location.

The location may be a location that needs to be supported, for instance an existing excavation; The location may be a location that will need to be supported; for instance a ή excavation to be created.

The method may include positioning the support element at the location, for instance with the tool in the lifting state. The method may include pushing the support element into the location to a limited extent, for instance with the tool in the lifting state, The limited extent may be less than 20 cm,

The method may include transitioning the tool to the driving state from the lifting state. Preferably the transition occurs before there is any driving of the support element into the location. The transition may include disconnection or deactivation or infraction of the restraining mechanism, particularly of the restraining element relative to the support element. The method may include the tool being free to move relative to the support element, within the confines of the support element engagement component still being in contact with and preferably being provided on either side of the support element.

Driving of the support element may include the action of lifting the driving location off the support element and then the action of bringing the driving location into contact with the support again. This cycle may be repeated, The cycle may be provided in a short time frame such that the driving location impacts upon the Support element. The cycle may include a relative movement of the tool compared with the support element of in excess of 100mm, more preferably in excess of 200mm and particularly ih excess of 300mm. The relative movement may be less than 700mm, mere preferably less than 600mm, The tool, in the driving state, may drive the support element into the location by more than 2Scm, may be more than 50cm, preferably more than 100cm and ideally more fhim 200cm,

According to an eighth aspect of the Invention there is provided a method of removing support from ah excavation site, the method including: 1) provided a topi for lifting and driving a support element on a machine, the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement Component; b) an orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; 2) providing the too! in proximity With a support element^ the support element being positioned in a location; 3) providing the too! in a support element lifting state and lifting the support element to remove the support element from the location; 4) moving the support element away from the location and then transitioning the tool from the support element lifting state to a state in which the support element can he disconnected from the tool.

The method may include transitioning the tool to the lifting state from another state, such as the driving state. Preferably the transition occurs before there is any lifting of the support element out of the location. The transition may include alignment of the support element) particularly an xSiij^irliufrie ttsefelilii: mechanism, particularly the restraining element. The transition may cause the restraining mechanism, particuiariy a restraining element to engage with the support element. The engagement may be with an aperture provided in the support element.

According to a ninth aspect of the invention there is provided a transportation stand for the tool for lifting and driving a support element according to any one of the first to fifth aspects of the invention.

The transportation stand may include a support body on which at least a part of the too! rests in a tmn®Poria^on siate The part of the too! may be the orientation component and|pr the machine engaging component.

The support body may include a planar surface on which the tool rests. The Support body may include one or more upwardly protruding elements, such as one or more raised side walls. The one or more upwardly protruding elements may be mounted on the support body, particularly to the side thereof. The one or more upwardly protruding elements may cooperate with the machine engaging component; most preferably so as to incline the axis of the machine engaging component at an angle offset from the axis of the orientation component and/or axis of the support element engagement component.

The support body may include an section which is inclined away from the tool and particularly away from the support element engagement component. The inclined section may provide a clearance for the tool during transition from a transportation state to a lifted state.

The support body, particularly the upwardly protruding elements thereof, may provide a mounting for a too! retainer; The tool retainer may maintain the position of the tool on the transportation stand during transportation, for instance to site, around site and/Or from the site. The tool retainer may include one or more, preferably two, upwardly extending arms The upwardly extending arms may be pivotally mounted on the support body. The tool retainer may include a cross bar, for instance extending across the top of the tool in the transportations state. The cross bar may engage with 006 or more pr all Of the upwardly extending arms 412, for instance via apertures in the cross bar and releasably fasteners, such as nuts, on the arms.

The transition from the transportation state to the lifting state may include one or more or all of, potentially In the stated sequence, releasing the releaseably fasteners, removing the cross bar, pivoting the upwardly protruding elements, for instance to the side of the support body, engaging a machine with the machine engagement component, lifting the tool using the machine.

The transportation sland may be provided with lifting elements, for instance in the form of parallel Sleeves. The lifting elements may be dimensioned and spaced to accommodate the forks of a fprk lift truck The lifting elements may be provided undertiie transportation stand. The lifting elements may be aligned along an axis perpendicular to the axis of the tool in the transportation state.

The first and/or second and/pr third and/or fourth and/or fifth and/or sixth and/or seventh and/or eighth and/or ninth aspects of the invention may include any of the features, options or possibilities set out elsewhere Within this document, including in toe otner aspects of the invention or the description of the embodiments of the invention.

Figure la shows a perspective view of a trench sheet of one of the possible types the present invention is suitable for use in relation to;

Figure lb shows a n end view of the trench sheet of Figure la illustrating the profile;

Figure 2a shows one example of a prior art sheet lifting tool and separate sheet driving tool in use to lift a sheet;

Figure 2b Shows the prior art tool Of Figure 2a in use to drive a sheet;

Figure | is a front view of a sheet 1ft and drive tool according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 is bottom plan view of the tool of Figure 3;

Figure Sa illustrates the preparation of the too! of Figure 3 on an excavator and being prepared for use;

Figure 5b illustrates the tool of Figure 5a being connected to a trench sheet showing the flexible angle of address;

Figure 5c illustrates the tool of Figure 5b lifting a trench sheet from a horizontal to a vertical orientation;

Figure 5d illustrates the tool of Figure 5e positioning a trenChsheet;

Figure 5e iliustrates the tool of Figure SCI being used to drive the trench sheet;

Figure 6a illustrates the tool of Figure 3 in a side view prior to preparation of the tool for lifting a trench sheet;

Figure 6b illustrates the tool of Figure 6a in the prepared position for lifting a trench sheet;

Figure 7a shows a front view of a sheet lift and drive tool according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 7h shows a bottom plan view of the tool of Figure 7a;

Figure 7c shows a side view of the tool of Figure 7a and 7b;

Figure 8a shows a front view of a sheet lift and drive too! according to a third embodiment Of the invention;

Figure 8b shows a side view of the too! of Figure 8a;

Figures 9a to 9d illustrate different trench sheet profiles and plan views of different embodiments of the tdoi optimised for engaging with that profile; arid

Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of a transportation stand for a tool according to the present invention.

In a wide variety of shoring applications, cold formed lapped trench sheets of the type shown in Figures la and lb and Figures 9a to 9d are used to provide support to the excavations. Other interlocking forms of piles can also be used. Lighter or heaviersections and/or longer or shorter sections are selected for use according to the purpose they are to be put to.

The trehCh Sheet A has a two apertures B, B' provided at orie end of the sheet which are used for lifting the trench sheet A. The trench sheet A has a cross-sectional profile shown most dearly in Figure lb; The trench sheet A has a first transition section C adjacent a first recessed section ©, which in turn is adjacent a second transition section E. The second transition section E is adjacent a first projecting section F, which in turn is adjacent a third transition section G. The third transition section G is adjacent a second recessed section H, with that adjacent to a fourth transition section i. The fourth transition section I leads to a second projecting section J and finally to a fifth transition section K. The junctions between adjacent sections are curved, with the transition sections and the projeetlng/recessed sections genera|!y pianar. The overall profile has a centreline 1-7. in general, the Sheets are transported to the site stacked in packs. The individual sheets need to be separated from other sheets, lifted to the vertical hanging position, transported to the location of use, positioned correctly and then be driven into the ground to provide the excavation support. The operation is then repeated for the adjoining interlocking sheet and so on to complete the excavation support;

Many prior art systems use a completely separate tool for the lifting and transportation steps to the tool used for the step of driving the sheet. Typically, the sheet lifting tool is a strap or sling which is attached to the sheet and then attached to an excavator or other similar machine present on site. The sheet lifting tool, in the strap or sling form, is manoeuvred using the excavator to lift the sheet to the vertical position, where it is hanging, and then transport it to the desired position of use. At the position of use, with the sheet in a generally vertical orientation, it is necessary to support the sheet temporarily and disengage the sheet lifting tool. This leaves the sheet with ah impaired level Of support and hence a risk of undesired movement, in addition, an operative has to climb up to the top edge of the sheet and position a sheet driving tool ip the form of a protective cap on tie top edge of the sheet. This involves lifting a significant weight {7 to 20kg for instance) to a height arid the use of a ladder or the like in imperfect conditions with a consequential risk to the safety Of the operative.

Some efforts have been made to simplify the transition between the sheet lifting tool use and the sheet dfiVihg tool use. An example is illustrated in Figure 2a showing the sheet lifting tool L in use to ca rry the Sheet M . The sheet lifting tool has been positioned such that a slot N in the sheet lifting tool passes over the end edge Of the Sheet M. The sheet lifting tool L is then adjusted in position so that a pin P mounted on the sheet lifting tool L can he passed through a lifting hole positioned towards the end of the sheet M. The pin P is used to lock the sheet lifting tool L and the sheet M together. The excavator R then lifts the sheet lifting tool L as it is suspended by a Chain Q from the excavator R. The sheet driving tool S is also connected to the end of the arm of an excavator R.

Once the sheet M has been transported to the desired position, the sheet driving too! S is pushed against the top of the sheet lifting too! L to give a slight push of the sheet into the ground and thus give initial support to it. The sheet lifting tool L is then detached from the sheet M and from the excavator R; the clai| is released to allow the chain (land sheet lifting tools L removal. The sheet driving tool S is then repeatedly impacted With the top edge of the sheet M or pushed against the top edge of the sheet M to drive the sheet M into the ground; as shown in Figure 2b.

Two separate tools are still provided for the two steps, butthey are present qn the excavator R at the same time;

The chain is undesirable as during the Sheet lifting and sheet transportation steps it allows an uncontrolled degree Of Swing and rotation for the sheet. This causes difficulties and unsafe working practices, for instance in winds. There is also still a need to transition between the two tools and to disconnect the sheet lifting tool and support its weight whilst doing SO;

Referring to Figure 3, the sheet lift and drive tool 1 is formed of three main components. These are the sheet engagement component 3, the sheet engagement orientation component S and the lifting device engagement component 7.

The lifting device en|aprnent compnent 7 allows the sheet lifting and driving tool to be mounted on a lifting device, such as an excavator (not shown in Figure 3) using the quick hitch assembly 9 conventional on such lifting devices. The quick hitch assembly 9 provides moveable fingers 11,13 which can be drawn together to pass between the fixed bars IS, 17 provided on the lifting device engagement component 7,The firtprs 11,13 are then expanded apart such that the bars 15,17 fit between the fingers 11,13 and the body 19 of the quick hitch assembly 9.In this way the sheet lifting and driving tool 1 is fixed to the lifting device for use, but can be easily released when desired.

The lifting device engagement component 7 provides two plates 21, 23 (see Figure 6a) as the mounts for the bars 15^ 17, with the plates 21, 23 depending from a body plate 25. On the underside (as illustrated in Figure 2) the body plate 25 provides a mount for a variable diameter stem 27 by means of which the sheet engagement orientation component 5 is connected to the lifting device engagement component 7. The stem 27 has a first cylindrical component 29 mounted on the body plate 25, a second reduced dia meter cylindrical component 31 and then a third greater diameter cylindicai component 33 which is distal to the body plate 25. The first 29, second 31 and third 31 cylindrical annuiar components are aligned on a first axis X-X.

The sheet engagement orientation component 5 can be thought of as a trunnion block; The sheet engagement orientation component 5 has an annular body 35 with a central bore 37 which shares the X-X axis; with the cylindrical components 29, 31,33. The second cylindrical element 31 extends through the bore 37. The first cylindrical component 29 and the third cylindrical component 33 have a diameter greater than the diameter of the bore 37 so as to mount the sheet engagement orientation component 5 on the lifting device engagement component 7 whilist allowing 360° rotation. A pair of axial iy aligned, cylihdncai stubs 39,41 extend from the annular body 35 to define a second axis of rotation Y-Y. Each of the stubs 39,41 provides a mount for an annular element 43,4|. A pair of arms 47,49 are each provided at their top with one of the annuiar elements 43,45. In the embodiment shown, the annuiar element 43,45 receives through its central bore the stubs 39,41 respectively thereby mounting the sheet engagement component 3 on the sheet orientation component 5. The arms 47,49 depend (downward as illustrated in Figure 3) from each of the annular elements 43, 45 and the distal ends of the arms 47,49, relative to the axis Y-Y are Connected to a cross plate 51. Although not shown in this embodiment, the cross plate 51 can be provided with a Series of apertures which receive fasteners 53 (see Figure 6a) in use This arrangement ΪΠ itself allows for rotation of about the Y-Y axis in excess of 90“ relative to the X-X axis. The sheet engagement component 3 is mounted on the sheet engagement orientation component 5 using the fasteners 53. The fasteners 53 are threaded and engage with threaded apertures in the base plate 55 Of the sheet engagement component 3 (see Figure 6a).

Depending from the base plate 55 are a series of fingers 57. The fingers are best seen in the bottom plan view of Figure 4. Two pairs 59,61 of fingers 57 are provided. The two pairs 59,61 are offset with respect to each other such that they receive the profile of the sheet 63. One pair 59 receives the corrugation which extends in a first direction relative to the plane of the sheet 63 and the other pair 61 receives the corrugation which extends in the second direction relative to the plane of the sheet 63.

In use, the quick hitch assembly 9 is used to connect the sheet lift and drive tool 1 to the operating device, which is an excavator 65 in the illustration of Figure 5a.

The excavator 6| then slowly lowers the sheet lift and drive tool 1 downward such that the tip 67 of the fingers 57 touches the surface of the ground 69. Further downward movement causes the Sheet engagement component 7 to rotate about axis Y-Y. With reference to Figures 6a and 6b, as the sheet engagement component 7 and the lower half of the sheet engagement orientation component 5 rotate, the support arm 71 position changes . The support arm 71 is pivotally mounted on the annular body 35, but the distal end 73 isfree to move. Rotation therefore results in the distal end 73 sliding along the fingers 59 Until the aperture 75 in the distal end 73 aligns with an aperture 77 in a protrusion 79 from one of the fingers 59. The dimensions of the support arm 71> fingers 59, cross plate 51 and base plate 55 are such that further rotation would take the apertures 75 and 77 out of alignment, in the aligned position, the fingers are angled at between 70° and 90° relative to the ^X axis. In this position, a holding pin (not shown) can be inserted through the apertures 75, 77. The orientation of the fingers 59 is thus fixed by the holding pin; even When the excavator 65 lifts the Sheet lift and drive tool 1 off the ground and advances it towards the pile of sheets 63; see Figure 5b. The angle of address between the fingers 59 arid the pile Of Sheets 63 is very variable and so can accommodate a wide range of situations encountered in practice and yet still conveniently and smoothly provide the movement into the aligned position.

Having lifted the sheet lift and drive tool 1 off the ground, the excavator 65 can advance the sheet lift and drive tool 1 towards a pile of sheets 63 see Figure 5b. As shown in close up in Figure 6b, the excavator 65 guides the sheet lift and drive too! 1 so that one of a pair of fingers 59 is below the sheet 63 and the other is above the sheet 63. The offset between the pairs of fingers 59 means that this is also the ease relative to the sheet 63 at the location of the other pair of fingers S9. With the Sheet 63 between the fingers 59 of each pair* the excavator 65 pushes the fingers 59 further in so that the sheet 63 is further between the fingers 59. this continues until the hole B present in the top sheet 63, from amongst multiple sheets that might be present, is aligned with the lift pin mechanism (not shown) mounted between the fingers 59. The lift pin mechanism (illustrated further in a further embodiment of the invention set out below) is then transitioned to insert the lift pin through the hole in the sheet 63 and into a supporting aperture (not shown) in the other side of the lift pin mechanism, in this state, the sheet 63 is fixedly connected to the sheet lift and drive tool 1, The holding pin is now removed to aliow the rotation Of the fingers 59 during lifting.

As shown in Figure 5c, the sheet 63 can then be lifted from the horizontal to the vertical plane; can be transported to the use location 79; and can be rotated as it is lowered to give the desired alignment at the use location 79; see Figure 5d. Lifting and retaining in this manner gives all of the necessary degrees arid ranges of movement for the lifting and positioning of the sheet 63, but prevents Or restrains the higher levels of movement which are undesirable or present a safety risk.

Once in the desired alignment at the use location 79, the sheet lift and drive tool 1 can be converted from the lifting state to the driving state. This is possible without any of the time delay Of working at height safety issues typical of the prior art approaches. Firstly, the lift pin mechanism Is transitioned using a puli rope, which is accessible at and can be easily operated from ground level, to remove the lift pin from through the hole in the sheet 63. Even with the lift pin removed* however, the sheet 63 is fully supported in position by the excavator and is safely retained in position. With the lift pin removed, the sheet lift and drive tool has transitioned to the driving state.

As shown in Figure 5e, the pile can then be pushed further and further into the use location 79 using the sheet lift and drive tool 1 which is impacted with the top edge of the sheet 63 by moving the arm of the excavator 65 up and down. With the lift pin removed* the sheet (iff and drive tool moves down, with the fingers 59 sliding down the sides of the sheet 63, until the base plate 55 impacts upon the top edge of the sheet 63. The base plate 5$ and its alignment and orientation relative to the arm of the excavator 65 is specifically designed to accommodate such impacts without detriment. The arm of the excavator 65 moves Up and down, within confines less than the length of the slot between the fingers J9, as often as is necessary fp drive the sheet 63 into the use location 7|. The confines may be 500mm of movement or so of the tool 1 relative to the sheet 63.

To remove the sheet from the excavation after use* the sheet lift and drive tool l is lowered onto the still projecting top edge of a sheet 63 to be removed. That edge is at a fairly low level compared with the supported groupd next fd it, so ap operator cap readily be in position to ensure the alignment of the fingers 59 on either side of the sheet and then the alignment of the hole towards the top of the sheet 63 with the extract pin of the extract pin mechanism. The extract pin is then inserted into the hole in the Sheet 63. The lift pin is free to travel within the slotted hole in the finger so as to provide impetus applied by the arm of the excavator as it moves upward. The upward movement pulls the sheet 63 out of the use location 79 gradually. Once from of the use location 79> the sheet 63 is fully retained on the sheet lift and drive tool l and can be transported to a desired location before being lowered and released in the reverse sequence.

An alternative configuration for the fingers 59 and selected other components of the tool 101 are shown in Figures 7a, 7b and 7c, together with details of the lift pin mechanism.

In this embodiment, one of the pairs of fingers 159a is provided with fingers which are longer than the pair of fingers 159b in the other pair. As a consequence, when the sheet lift and drive tool 101 is brought into contact with the sheet 163 in a stack of sheets {in the manner of Figure 4b), the longer pair of fingers 159a come to engage the sheet 163 first and the introduction of the sheet 163 into the Slot 200 between the pair of fingers 159a automatically guides the pair of fingers 159b into alignment too each pair. The longer pair of fingers 159a slide into the trough of a sheet 163 as it is lying on the ground/stack of sheets 163 and the shorter pair of fingers 159b slide into the peak of the sheet 163.

The tips of the fingers 159a are provided with a tapered end 202 and the tips of the fingers li9b are provided with a similar tapered end 204, with the tapered laces of the first pair of fingers lSia being in opposition to the tapered faces of the second pair of fingers 159b..

The lift pin mechanism 206 is shown in Figures 7a arid 7b. The lift pin mechanism 206 is provided by a plate 208 bridging part of the gap 210 between two fingers 159, one from each pair of fingers. Two projecting brackets 212 provide a rotational mounting for a shaft 214 on which an L-shaped arm 216 is provided. The lift pin 218 is mounted On the end of the L-shaped arm. The lift pin 218 is urged towards the inserted states fist instance by a spring based force, in the inserted state, the lift pin 218 passes through an aperture 220 in one finger 159, through the slot between a pair of fingers 159 and into an aperture 222 in the second finger 159 of the pair of fingers. in one preferred form, an elastomeric block element such as a urethane block is used as the spring force provider for the lift pin mechanism 206. Such an element is suited to repeated use and Is sufficiently robust for the conditions encountered. The urethane element is squeezed between the arm 216 and its mounting.

When the support arm 71 is attached to restrain the position of the sheet engagement component 3, the lift pin mechanism is position in the retracted state. This is done by rotating a cam element 218 which is also rotationally mounted on the plate 208 into an over-centre orientation Which maintains the retracted state. The sheet lift and drive tool 1 can then be introduced to the sheet 63 until the sheet 63 is between the apertures 220, 222 In the pair of fingers 159. The cam is then rotated to no longer retain the lift pin 218 in the retracted state. Instead the lift pin 218 is now being urged towards the sheet 163, such that when the lift pin 218 aligns with the hole in the sheet 163, the lift pin 218 pSseS through the hole in the sheet 163 and into the aperture 222 in the second, rear, finger 159.

When it is desired to transition the sheet lift and driye tooi 1 to the drive state, then an operator can puli on a lanyard 224 connected to an arm 226 oh the cam element 218 to pull it back Over centre to the retracted State for the lift pin mechanism 200. This means that the lift pin 218 is fully withdrawn and will not he exposed to the higher force levels applied during the sheet driving step.

The lift pin 218 can be reengaged with the hole B in the sheet at a later time when it is desired to remove the sheet from the ground.

In a further alternative, not shown, one of the fingers 159 in at least one of the pairs of fingers 159 is provided with one finger 159 which is longer than the other. As a consequence, when the sheet lift and drive tool 101 is brought into contact with the sheet 163 in a stack Of Sheets (in the ma nner of Figure 5b), the longer finger 159 can be brought more easily to rest on the top surface of the sheet 163 and the introduction of the sheet 163 into the slot 200 between the pair of fingers 159 and with the other pair of fingers 159 then following into position. With the support arm 171 in the engaged state, the longer finger 159a is the upper finger in each pair.

Whilst *h the embodiments described above a single sheet lift and drive tool is provided, there is the option of providing a series of separate components for the tool which allow it to more precisely accommodate different sheet profiles by selecting the best suited component and/or Which allow it to aecdmmodate a Wider range of sheet profiles by allowing substitution of the best suited component. An alternative configuration of the sheet lift and drive tool 301shown in Figure 8a and 8b, the sheet engagement component 303 is one from amongst many possible such sheet engagement components. These possible sheet engagement components 303 allow for the interchange between one configuration of the fingers which engage the trench sheet 63 and other configurations of fingers which engage the trench sheet 63. In particular, to allow successful and secure engagement with the different types and profiles of trench sheet 63 exemplified in Figure 9a, 90,9c and 9d, different configurations of fingers may be used. Eh each Of these iflustratiOhs a different configuration of the fingers is provided. l| Figure 9a, a single pair 359 of fingers 357 is provided which are suitable to engage that profile of trench sheet 63a. in Figure 89b, a Single pair 359 of fingers 357 is provided which are suitable to engage the profile of that trench sheet 63b; the finger configuration may vary in terms of the width of the fingers, their length and/or their separalon cprnpered with the configuration of Figure 9a. In Figure 9c, two pairs 359, 361 of fingers 357 are provided. The pairs are offset and separated from one another in a manner which matches the profile of the particular trench sheet 63c that they are designed to be used with. In Figure 9d> a single pair 359 Of fingers 357 are provided, but with a pair of rods 380, 382 which extend down the side of ope of the fingers. The rods 380,382 extend the width of the combination so as to more Closely match the recess in the trench sheet 63d.

Returning to Figures 8a and 8b, an example of a single pair 359 of fingers 357 is Shown. In this embodiment, the operation and structure of the lifting device engagement component 307 and of the sheet engagement orientation component 305 are substantiaiiy as described above for the earlier embodiments. The sheet engagement component 3031s readily interchangeable as it is bolted to the underside Of the Sheet engagement orientation component 305 using suitable fixings 384. This allows the unit to be used on various trench sheet profiles, as described above, but still utilising components 305 and 307,

In this embodiment, the Sheet engagement Component 303 is only provided with a Single pair 359 of fingers 357. One of the fingers 357a extends further from the sheet engagement orientation component 305 than the other finger 357b. Hence finger 357a is longer than finger 357b in this embodiment The finger 357a is designed to be the uppermost of the two fingers 357 when they are slid into engagement with a trench sheet 63 that is to be lifted (Figure 5a and 5b). The finger 357a has a pair of handies 386. The handles 386 extend sideways away from the finger 357a and also away from the second finger 357b so as to provide clearance for the operators hands and avoid interfering with the trench sheet 63 when engaging,

The lift pin mechanism 306 is also substantially as described above. However, in the single pair 359 of fingers 357 format, the lift pin mechanism 306 is mounted on the finger 357a which is uppermost during the engagement with the trench sheet 63. The lift pin 318 passes through an aperture 320 in the finger 357a so as to reach and pass through the hole in the trench sheet 63 and then engage with the aperture 322 in the second finger 357b of the pair.

The Figure 8a and 8b embodiment also illustrates in detail an alternative approach to the removal of the sheet 63 from an excavation after use. As described in the embodiments above, the lift pin mechanism 306 is used for this purpose and the lift pin mechanism 306 of the Figure 8a and 8b embodiment can be used for this purpose. The alternative is provided by an elongate slot 388 In both the finger 357a and the finger 357b, This slot 388 is aligned with the hole in the trench sheet 63 to be removed and an extraction pin 390 is inserted through the slot 388 in the finger 357a, through the hole in the trench sheet 63 and through the slot 388 in the finger 357b.

Various approaches can be used to retain the extraction pin 390 in this position as the upward movement of the arm of the exoavetor seels to puli the trench sheet 63 out. In the illustrated embodiment, a pivotaiiy mounted clip arm 392 is provided. The pivot 394 allows this to rotate around to a retaining position 3i6from a release position 398. In the retaining position 396 a paii of the Clip arm engages with the extraction pin 390 and prevents that from moving along its axis and hence releasing the trench sheet 63. In the release position 398, the clip arm 392 hangs down and there is no engagement between the clip arm 392 and the extraction pin 390. Hence the extraction pin 390 can be moved axialiy to bring it into engagement with the trench sheet 63 prior to extraction or to remove it from engagement with the trench sheet 63 after extraction.

The slot 388 allows for relative movement of the tool relative to the trench sheet 63 and hence a degree of impetus to be established which assists in the removal of the trench sheet 63.

In ah alternative embodiment, not illustrated, the extraction pin 390 is inserted in the Same ma il hef> bit is retained in position during the extraction stage by a spring loaded lever. The lever is pivotally mounted and is spring loaded so as to rotate towards the extraction pin 390. Asa consequence, the lever is urged into engagement with the extraction pin 390 throughout the extraction stage. The preferred engagement between the extraction pin 390 and the lever is via a Slot in the extraction pin 390 which has sufficient width, considered along the axis of the extraction pin 390, to accommodate the Width of the lever. As a consequence, the extraction pin 390 is maintained in position in the slot 388 even d u ring upward and down ward movement of the tool.

Beneficially, the tool 1 is provided With a transportation stand 400, as shown in Figure 10. The transportation stand features a support body 402 on which the tool 1 rest?, With the tool 1 in this position, a raised side wai! 404 on either side of the support body 402 cooperates with the lifting device engagement component 7 so as to present the quick hitch assembiy 9 at a convenient orientation for the excavator or Other device. The quick hitch assembiy 9 is inclined relative to the longitudinal access of the tool 1 overall. The front section 406 of the support body 402 is inclined towards the ground, in use, and provides a clearance into which the Sheet engagement component 3 can pivot as the tool 1 is lifted off the support plane 408 of the Support body and then away from the transportation stand 400.

The support body 402, particularly the raised side wails 404 provide a mounting for a tool retainer 410. The tool retainer 410 maintains the tool 1 on the transportation stand 400 during transportation to site, around Site and from the site. The too! retainer 410 is formed Of two pivotaiiy mounted arms 412 which are passed though apertures in a cross her 414 and then are fixed there using nuts 416. Releasing the nuts 416, removing the cross bar 414 and pivoting the arms 412 to the side allows for easy removal of the tool 1 from the transportation stand 400 and easy return after use.

The transportation stand 4QQ is provided with Sifting elements 418 in the form of parallel Sleeves 420 which are dimensioned and spaced to accommodate the forks of a fork Sift truck. Easy lifting of the transportation stand 400 and tool 1 is thus provided.

Claims

1. A tool for lifting and driving a support element, the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; wherein the tooi has a support element lifting State and a support eiernent driving state* in which the support element remains in the support element receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support element driving state,

2. A tool according to claim 1, the tooi having a support eiernent lifting state and a support eiernent driving state, in which the support element is at a first position within the support element receiving location in the support element lifting state and is at a second position within the support element receiving location in the support element driving state. % A tool acco rd ing % claim J or claim 2, the tool having a support element lifting state and a support eiernent driving state, in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support element driving state passes through the machine engagement component, the orientation component and the support element engagement component*

4. A tool according to any preceding claim, in which the machine engagement component is Connected to the orientation component and the orientation component is connected to the support element engagement component during a support element lifting state and a support element driving state. Si A tool for lifting and driving a support element, the|pol comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; wherein the tool has a support element lifting state and a support eiernent driving state, in which the support element is at a first position within the support element receiving Ideation in the support element lifting state and is at a second position within the Support element receiving location in the support element driving state.

6. A tool according to claim 5, the tool having a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the Support element remains in the support element receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support element driving state.

7. A tool according to claim 5 or claim 6, the too! having a support element lifting state and a Support element driving state, in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support element driving state passes through the machine engagement component, the orientation component and the Support eiement engagement component.

8. A tool for lifting and driving a support element; the tooi comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; wherein the tool has a support element lift ing state and a support element driving state, in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support element driving state passes through the machine engagement component, the orientation component and the support eiement engagement component.

9. The too! according to ciaim 8, wherein the tool has a support element lifting State and a support element driving state, in which the support element remains in the support eiement receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support eiement driving state.

10. The tool according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the support element is at a first position within the support element receiving location in the support element lifting state and is at a second position within the support element receiving location in the support eiement driving state.

11. The too! according to any of claims 8 to 10 in which the machine engagement component is connected to the orientation component and the orientation component is connected to the support element engagement component during a support element lifting state and a support element driving state.

12. A tool for lifting and driving a support element, the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; wherein the machine engagement component is connected to the orientation component and the orientation component is connected to the support element engagement component during a support element lifting state and a support element driving states

13. The tool according to claim 12 in which the too! has a support element lifting State and a support element driving state, in which the support element remains in the support element receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting State to the support element driving state.

14. The tool according to claim 12 or claim 13, in which the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the support element is at a first position within the support element receiving location in the support element lifting state and is at a second position within the support element receiving location in the support element driving state;

15. The tool according to ariy Of claims 12 to 14, in which the too! has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support element driving state passes through the machine engagement Component, the orientation component and the support element engagement component.

16. A tool for Sifting and d|y|ng a support element, the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation com ponent; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; wherein the support receiving location provides a support element lifting location and a support element driving location.

17. The tool according to claim 16, in which the tool has a support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the support element remains in the support element receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support element driving State; |8. The tool according to claim 1| or claim 17; in which the too! has a support element Sifting state and a support element: driving state, in which the support element is at a first position within the support element receiving ideation iri the support element lifting state and is at a second position within the support element receiving location ih the support element driving state.

19. The tool according to any of claims 16 to 18, in which the tool has a Support element lifting state and a support element driving state, in which the force applied to the support element in the support element lifting state and the force applied to the support element in the support element driving state passes through the machine engagement component:, the orientation compOherit and the support element engagement component. 20. the tool according to any preceding claim in which, the machine engagement component provides the connection of the too! to a machine, such as ah excavator or other construction site equipment. 21. the tool according to any preceding claim in which, the machine engagement component connects with the orientation component, preferably with the connection between the machine engagement component and the orientation component being provided for multiple orientations of the orientation component relative to the machine engagement component.

22. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the connection between the machine engagement component and the Orientation component provides for multiple orientations of thf orientation component relative to the machine. 23. lie tool according to any preceding claim in which, the orientation component connects with the support element engagement component, the connection between the orientation component and the support element engagement component providing multiple orientations of the support element engagement component relative to the orientation component

24. The too! according to any preceding claim in which, the machine engagement component provides a releasable connection of the too! to a machine.

25. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the machine engagement component provides a first axis of rotation, the first axis of rotation being for the orientation component about the machine engagement component.

26. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the machine engagement corn pone nt provides a pair of fixed position elements, for instance for the machine to engage with.

27. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the machine engagement component provides a mo unting for the o rientation component:

28. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the mounting includes a stem, such as a right cylinder, which provides at least a part of the element about which the orientation component can rotate.

29. The too! according to any preceding claim in which, the mounting includes a retaining element which is distal to the support element and/or is connected to |he stem.

30. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the retaining element provides a bearing surface for a part of the Orientation Component, particularly the body thereof.

31. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the mounting may include a stem connection element provided between the support element and the stem.

32. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the same support element provides the mounting elements for the fixed position elements and provides the mounting for the orientation component. 33; The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the machine engagement component is connected to the orientation component by the interaction of the orientation component with the mounting provided by the machine engagement component.

34. The too! according to any preceding Claim in which, the orientation component provides for the support element engaging component to assume a plurality of different orientations relative to the machine engagement component, preferably with the plurality of orientations providing at least 200° of rotation about a first axis.

35. The too! according to any preceding claim in which, the orientation component provides a second axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation being for the support element engagement component about the orientation component.

36. The tool according to any preceding claim in which; the orientation component provides a bod> the body includes a through bore,

37. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the orientation component provides a mounting for the support element engagement component.

38. The tool according tb any preceding claim ifi Which, the body of the orientation component provides the second axis of rotation.

39. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the support element engagement component provides a support element receiving location.

40. The tool according to arty preceding claim in which, the support element engagement component provides a releasable connection of the tool to a support element, such as a trench sheet.

41. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the distal ends of the arms relative to the base element include a mounting element, preferably the mounting elem.ent(s) mount the support element engagement componepfof the orientation component.

42. The tool according to any preceding claim in which the base plate are connected to one of a set of further base plates, the set of further base plates including one or more fu rther base plates which are provided with support element contacting components which are different compand with one or more of the other further base plates in the set.

43. The topi apprding to any preceding claim in which, a plurality of support element receiving locations are provided, for instance between multiple support contacting elements, such as two or more pairs.

44. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, at least two pairs of opposing elements are provided, preferably with the two pairs separated from one another in a first direction, preferably substantially perpendicular to the second axis of rotation and/or along the width of the profiie of the support element when contacted by the support element engaging component.

45. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the Support element contacting components are provided with one or more of the support element contacting components having a greater extent from the base element, than one or more of the other support element contacting components.

46. The tool according to any preceding claim in which, the tool also includes an orientaibn maintenance element for the support element engagement component;

47. The too! according to any preceding claim in which, the too! includes a restraining mechanism for the support element to be lifted,

48. A method of providing support for an excavation site, the method ioeiuding: 1) provided a tool for lifting and driving a support element on a machine, the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) ah orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component, the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location· 2} providing the tool in proximity with a support element; 3} providing the tool in a support element lifting state and lifting the support element; 4} moving fhe support element to a location and then transitioning the tool from the support element lifting state to a support element driving state, the support element remaining in the support element receiving location during the transition from the support element lifting state to the support element driving state; 5) driving the support element into the location using the machine.

49. The method of claim 48, which includes connecting the tool to the machine, most preferably using the machine engagement component) preferably with the machine being an excavator:

50. The method according to claim 48 or claim 49, the method including lowering the too! using the machine into proximity with a support element to be lifted, the too! being advanced into contact with the support element. 51. the method according to any of claims 48 to 50, in which the method includes sliding one or more elements of the tool over the support element, for instance one or more of the support element contacting components. 5¾ A method of removing supportfrom an excavation site, the method including: 1) provided a tool for lifting and driving a support element on a machine^ the tool comprising: a) a machine engagement component; b) an orientation component; and c) a support element engagement component) the support element engagement component providing a support element receiving location; 2} providing the too! in proximity With a support element; the support element being positioned in a location; 3} providing the too! in a support element lifting state and lifting the Support element to remove the support element from the location; 4) moving the support element away from the location and then transitioning the tool from the support element lifting state to a state in which the support element can be disconnected from the tool.

53. A transportation stand for the too! for lifting and driving a support element according to any preceding ciaim.